Have you ever wondered where your ancestors hail from? DNA kits are able to help you find that out. The first commercially available “at-home” kit came from Ancestry.com. With a click of the mouse, you are able to find family from the past. You are able to fill out your own family tree. If you get any names with green leaves on them, you are able to open up more information. What if you wanted to take it further? With the help of DNA testing, you are able to find out where you come from. Not to mention, you’re able to find ancestors with the help of your DNA kit. As the years passed, new DNA kits arrived on the scene.

Ancestry DNA and 23andme are two of the more popular ones. By ordering them through the mail, you receive your very own DNA kits. Whether by using a swab, or spitting into a tube, the kits are as easy as one, two, three.

What are DNA Kits?

Each of us is made up of DNA. Every part of our bodies holds a complete set of what we are made of. Skin, heart, blood and bones, even our cells tell us who we are.

So what makes DNA kits so special?

DNA kits help us figure out our past and where our heritage began. They use genetic marker sequences within our DNA to find results. Some DNA kits, or DNA testing, can even help us find out if our family have certain disease markers. 23andme is one of those DNA kits that can do that. There are a lot of uses for DNA kits besides figuring out the past.

How does DNA testing work

Most DNA testing looks for genetic markers that are similar between two people, or samples. Since all of the cells in our bodies are exactly the same, samples can be taken from anywhere. Hair, skin, saliva and other bodily fluids just to name a few. Even forensic scientists use DNA testing or DNA kits while working. The most common is using evidence from under the fingernails or a blood sample.

First, your DNA will be isolated and copies are made. Millions of copies using a method called PCR, or polymerase chain reaction. It’s from PCR that scientists can find your specific code and start DNA testing. The “fingerprints” found within these codes are compared for matches.

DNA kits

Today, there are some popular DNA kits that you can order online. 23andme and Ancestry DNA have been found in several ads on Facebook. They can also be seen in television commercials. Both kits use saliva for DNA testing. Just order, spit and send back. Simple, right?

Ancestry and Ancestry DNA

Ancestry has been one of the most popular sites for finding out one’s heritage. You can also plan out your family tree on the site. To obtain your family tree, just add in the family members you already know. Ancestry then searches those names within their record collections. Sometimes names will come back with a leaf on them.

What now? Click on the leaf, of course! New names could be revealed from this information. The more family members you add to your tree, the more hints you could get. It is fun to watch your heritage being revealed to you. Here’s a quick video of how one Ancestry user was able to trace her family line.

Don’t have time to enter all that information? Order an Ancestry DNA kit. It’s easy to order and use.

How does Ancestry DNA work

Ancestry DNA is easy to use. Upon receiving your DNA testing kit, you’ll open it up. Inside the box, you will have a full set of instructions on how to use the kit. You also get a saliva collection tube and a prepaid return mailing package. This ensures that you have no additional costs. After returning the DNA testing kit in the mail, your sample will be tested in a lab.

Ancestry DNA Costs

Yes, it is true these are not free services. Now that you’ve explored the website, you’re ready to order your very own kit. Just click on the ORDER NOW button. From there you will fill out your order form. It costs $99 plus shipping and handling for one kit. You are able to send DNA kits to other family members as well. There is an option button for that on the order form.

Results from your Ancestry DNA kit

When will I get my results? That question is the most asked one. According to the Ancestry DNA website, your sample will be processed within six to eight weeks. After that, you will receive an email confirmation and your test results. One important note of advice; make sure to activate your DNA kits before sending them in. This ensures they will be processed correctly.

23andme DNA Kits

23andme is an up and coming DNA testing kit. When you pop on their website you will find two different DNA kits. The first one is their ancestry service. After sending in the sample for this kit, you will get a global ancestry breakdown. You’re able to map out your ancestry, possibly seeing how far back the generations go. With these DNA kits, you’re able to find the origins of your maternal and/or paternal ancestors.

Their second DNA testing kit is the recommended health +ancestry service. Besides finding your ancestry line, you can get a comprehensive view of your genetics. You’ll receive more than 75 reports online about your traits, health, and ancestry.

Is 23andme right for you?

How 23andme works and what it costs

Like Ancestry DNA, 23andme’s basic ancestry service costs $99. The combined health +ancestry service costs $199. The site recommends this package over their basic service. Possibly because you get more results about yourself and you didn’t know your family had. The kit should arrive within three to five days after ordering. Make sure to activate your kit once received.

Again, you receive a box with full instructions of how to use. No blood or needles required. A saliva tube sits in your box, as well as a return mailing package. In six to eight weeks you will get an email confirmation to let you know your results are ready. Just log into your account and discover what your DNA says about you.

How Private are DNA Kits — Privacy Concerns

After ordering a DNA testing kit, one often wonders how private the information is. Privacy concerns are good to have. Kate Black, Privacy Officer & Corporate Counsel says, “Your privacy and the security of your information is 23andMe’s highest priority. Our goal is to be transparent about our policies and practices related to data use. We want to ensure your information is protected by physical, technical and administrative security measures.”

They do collect information such as name, address and credit card information upon order. However, they claim they do not sell, lease or rent personal information to third-parties.

According to their website:

23andMe uses a range of physical, technical, and administrative measures to safeguard your Personal Information, in accordance with current technological and industry standards. In particular, all connections to and from our website are encrypted using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology.

Ancestry DNA claims to do the same thing. They also allow you to download your DNA testing results, as well have them delete the results from their database. As well, they do not share personal information with third-party advocates. For more information visit both sites for more in-depth privacy statements.

Find Out Who You Are Today

Both 23andme and Ancestry DNA are great ways to find out who you are. Each use saliva for their test results. They’re very simple to use and both protect your personal information from third-parties. You can order one just for you, or even order them for family members. Visit their sites to find which one is best for you. Not sure which to choose, here’s a video giving a full comparison of both DNA kits. Which one are you going to choose?

The pressing question is, “can we get Hulu free anymore?” Inquiring minds want to know. Hulu had bloomed in popularity because they bring us all the TV shows we love, but can’t get on Netflix, at one click. But, you used to be able to get Hulu, “Hulu Plus,” and even a free trial of Hulu — can you anymore? Well catch you up on the greatest aspects of this service, and answer all the questions you have about Hulu free.

Many people turn to online sites that allow us to watch television. And everyone likes to get stuff “free,” though nearly nothing is really free anymore. Usually, to get something free, you are paying for it in information or watching advertisements.

Still, we ask ourselves; in a world where free isn’t really free anymore, is Hulu free?

Online Video Streaming: Hulu Free

Hulu is an online video streaming site that launched in 2008. You can find your favorite movies there, but Hulu centers more on TV series. You’re able to use any device available to stream your favorite shows. With the use of your tablet, smartphone or TV, you can stream Hulu anywhere. You are able to watch all types of shows on Hulu; action, comedy, romance and more. If you’re into anime, you’ll find select shows and movies on Hulu and “Hulu Plus.” Hulu is becoming the most go-to site for television programs found on major networks, not including the CW and CBS.

Many people had Hulu free, and others Hulu Plus, though their model has changed in the last few years.

Hulu video streaming for free

The services Hulu provides are becoming more popular, like Netflix or Amazon Video. Of course, Hulu works by connecting to wireless internet services. By doing this, when they started, you were able to stream your favorite videos and shows for free on a trial basis. This makes traveling long distances, or a long flight more tolerable. Just plug into available internet services and enjoy! According to Hulu Press;

“Hulu is the complete TV experience for consumers, offering both live and on-demand programming and more consumer choice than ever before,” said Freer. “We are the only place that delivers award-winning content, ad loads less than half that of traditional television, with ads that are always viewable and always in a brand-safe environment — and we are leading the TV and advertising industries into the future.”

But, the Free trial on Hulu is a thing of the past

When they started out, new subscribers were able to get a 7-day free trial. You were allowed limited access to the site, with commercials, while choosing a plan. Hulu began to take catching up with the competition seriously, in 2016. That is when they dropped the free trial, and added other things.

Is it true “Hulu Plus” is no longer free?

Yes, it is true, they ended their 7-day free trial. And, actually, “Hulu Plus” no longer exists either. With competing companies, Hulu decided to move towards an all-subscription model. In 2016, Hulu joined a deal with Yahoo. That is when Hulu decided to phase out their free trial system. Why?

According to PCMag.com, “Hulu used to have a free tier with limited shows and advertising, but killed it in 2016. Now, the price is a flat $7.99 per month for its base content. Hulu used to call this tier “Hulu Plus,” but now it’s just Hulu.

They focused on building a subscription service that provided a more personalized experience possible for their viewers. Hulu Senior VP and Head of Experience Ben Smith said in a statement, “As we have continued to enhance that offering with new originals, exclusive acquisitions, and movies, the free service became very limited and no longer aligned with the Hulu experience or content strategy.”

Hulu free is no longer available, but the services offered by the streaming service seem to make up for the low cost.

The Product Formerly Known as “Hulu Plus” – Is the pricing worth it?

To get or not to get, that is the question. When Hulu started, their basic package for $7.99 came with limited commercial interruptions. Some were fine with these interruptions. However, for $4 more you can get more content with no commercials – minus certain shows that have them due to streaming rights.

But what makes Hulu better than cable?

Cable television is very expensive these days. And a technician from whichever company comes to your home to install everything. Some companies charge for that installation, and even that can run into money not well spent. Additionally, if you don’t own a cable box you’re looking at spending $20-$30 a month. That adds up to a lot of money.

Whereas, if you were to sign up for Hulu today, you’d only be spending $7.99 a month. If you chose to sign up for Hulu with Live TV, you could completely skip the Cable TV, for only $39.99 a month. If you already have cable, you know that is a heck of a savings. With average US cable bills running $99.99 a month, that is only one third the cost.

Also, if you’re going on vacation or need to take a break, financially, you can put your account on hold for up to twelve weeks. Can you do that with cable? We’ll cover more about Hulu with Live TV below. First, let’s talk about an exciting offer for Hulu and Sprint customers

Sprint Unlimited Plus Hulu, Plus Means Better!

Sprint users are in luck! All new or current Sprint users are able to sign up for Hulu on their smartphones. How does it work exactly? After you’re done signing up for your subscription you’ll get an activation link or code. By using the link or code, you’re able to complete any Hulu registration process.

Adding Hulu to your Sprint plan

Basically, enter your email address to create an account and log in to your current Hulu account. It’s that simple! Note, those who are already signed up for Hulu Limited Commercials, won’t have access to Hulu Live TV or add-ons. According to the Sprint FAQs page, your plan “includes the TV you love, with the Hulu Limited Commercials plan. Your Sprint Unlimited plan also includes a 10GB mobile hotspot so you can watch on the go, where you go. You’ll be able to watch the most popular next-day TV, original series, thousands of hit shows, movies and more.”

Sounds almost too good to be true, right?

Watching Hulu “Free” with Sprint Unlimited

After registering and activating your account, watching Hulu with Sprint is easy. Since the app comes on your phone already, you can take it anywhere. Stream your favorite shows and movies from the comfort of your home, car or wherever you get an internet connection.

There are, however, some exclusions at the moment. Sprint prepaid brands, any phones on seasonal standby, as well as Sprint corporate and business accounts are excluded. There is no information on when these types of exclusions will be allowed, till then it looks like Sprint users are limited. Hulu free is no longer available here either.

Hulu Channel Lineups and Subscriptions: Hulu with Live TV

Like mentioned above, cable is expensive these days, especially if you want to watch certain networks, movies or television shows. Even when using a DVR system, you’re looking to spend large amounts of money to achieve this. If you are addicted to your cable, your best bet is to go with Hulu with Live TV.

Sure it’s $39.99 a month, but in the long run, you’re saving money to watch live television. This subscription will cover your local, regional and standard cable networks. Not to mention, you get up to 50 hours worth of DVR recording time. (If you’re not looking to spend $40 a month, you also get DVR with the basic package.) Even with the cheaper versions, you still have access to your favorite shows.

Have a large household, look into getting the Hulu’s add-on packages. You get more hours for DVR recordings, and Unlimited Screens packages. However, some regional and local channels might be limited due to where you live.

Free Movies Online, a Thing of the Past

It was sad to see Hulu free disappear. However, you’re still able to stream favorites such as Law and Order, Family Guy, and South Park just to name a few. There are no hidden fees, no extra equipment, and no cable guy to come install anything when signing up for Hulu. All you need is your phone, tablet, Roku, Chromecast, Apple TV device or a Samsung Smart Tv for streaming. It’s also nice to know that you can cancel at any time without any extra costs. Even the streaming quality is pretty nice. Hulu with Live TV comes in HD quality.

For your viewing pleasure, Hulu Free no longer

Hulu with Live TV is a great replacement to cable television, and Hulu’s lower tiers make a great addition to your current streaming services. For just $7.99, that’s a deal you don’t want to pass up. You save money in the long run and it’s a great investment in entertainment.

Now there’s a new way to work out, it’s called the bungee workout, and it is a fast-growing fitness craze. There have been viral videos all over Facebook and YouTube of this new form of fitness. It’s easy to see why, too – why just work out when you can

Many people work out, every day, in one form or another. Whether it is lifting kids up and down stairs, going to the gym, or running. Now they can have a blast while doing so.

In these viral videos, we see people having fun, working out, and flying. They make it look fun and easy. But is it?

You get to defy gravity, experience weightlessness and have fun doing it. Also, you work up a sweat during the bungee workout. Bungee workouts are great for those who are overweight, have joint issues, or back problems but still want to work out. The bungee allows them movement without hurting themselves. Not only that, the bungee workout is good for athletes and military members looking for physical rehabilitation. There are moves that can be done to stimulate certain muscles or areas of the body without the added joint pressure.

Bungee isn’t just for circus or dance acts anymore. This new form of working out will make you laugh and work your body at the same time. How cool would it be to hang from the ceiling while getting in a cardio workout and create flowing movements in the air? What’s stopping you?

What is the Bungee Workout

Bungee jumping has been a fascination to risk takers and thrill seekers around the globe. Now the fitness world is taking it one step further. What is a bungee workout anyway? Basically, it is a gravity-defying exercise program that uses a resistant bungee cord. These ropes are suspended from the ceiling, allowing users easy movement. It is a mix of aerial training, dance, and fitness with some acrobatic fun thrown in.

It looks easy, but don’t let them fool you. This type of workout is going to make you feel clumsy.

But where did the bungee workout originate? The use of the bungee came from Bangkok, Thailand. One of the theater programs would hold bungee workout classes to help tone the core and other muscles in the body. The group Stories to Tales would post their workout videos online. In them, you can see people literally bouncing off the walls. Here’s a beautiful performance showing just how much core strength you need for a bungee workout.

Bungee Fitness, Learn to Fly!

Whoever said you can’t learn to fly like Peter Pan obviously never took a bungee workout class. According to Christine Longe Founder, CEO and Owner of The Aviary, “Aerial fitness is the adult answer to your childhood dreams of flying. It’s an incredible way to tone your body, getting you to use muscle groups you never work in a traditional gym workout.”

Who wouldn’t want to do that? Bungee fitness brings back memories of being on the playground and hanging upside down on the jungle gym. The bungee workout programs are not just for already fit people. Their are classes for all levels of fitness.

Participants can be seen in a hip harness that goes through both legs. It then goes around the waist and clips into the bungee cord suspended from the ceiling.

Exercise with strings attached

The cool thing about the bungee workout is the aerial moves. It feels like dancing and flying with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell. But don’t let it deceive you. The lunges, planks, and sit-ups in between each aerial will have you screaming for a break.

Yes, it takes some upper strength to be able to pull off some of the moves. However, after a couple of classes, you will find your strength returning. Each class is easy to follow. The instructors give clear verbal cues, as well as hands-on assistance. Also, who could pass up the benefits of a bungee workout;

Increased strength

Keeps you mentally engaged

Makes you aware of your body

Decompression

Let’s you feel like a kid

Exercising with strings attached is definitely out of anyone’s comfort zone. Don’t let that intimidate you, because Bungee Fitness helps everyone become adequate with aerial moves. Their classes are even good for kids over the age of 12. Each bungee cord is sized to the person. They go by height, weight, and strength level.

Finding a Bungee Workout Class

After seeing how much fun everyone is having, your first question is most likely: where can I find a bungee workout class near me? Just go to Google or Bing and type in “bungee fitness classes near me” to see what comes up. Try your city directory websites, too. For myself, there are several in my area. Davidson Fitness Center in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, as well as Anytime Fitness in Waynesville and Rolla. Whichever city, state, or country you live in, there is sure to be something for you!

Bungee workout class prices

Each bungee workout class may vary in price. Some gyms may offer packages. Some classes are $20-$30 each, where a package could range from $75-$125. It really depends on which gym you go to. Make sure to check out the websites for each bungee fitness program nearby. They will usually have the prices of their classes offered.

Crunch Fitness, Bungee Flight

Looking for a great group class? Look no further than Crunch Fitness! Their motto is “no judgments.” It doesn’t matter what shape you’re in, what size you are, nor your fitness level, Crunch Fitness is for everyone. Their manifesto reads as follows;

There are no judgments here — No too much or not enough. No glares of disapproval. Here we keep open minds. We are nurturers. We seek only to encourage, empower, and entertain.

What we are is a diverse community. what we have is a culture of fun; what there is, is room for everyone: all kinds of people with all kinds of goals who’ve chosen to come reach them with us.

Crunch. No Judgments.

Who could say no to that? Also, they have bungee workout classes. It is fun, challenging, and definitely gives you a workout. According to a video from ABC7 News, they say: “it’s cardio, it’s strength, it’s abs, and you get to fly!” Crunch Fitness is the first gym to offer bungee workout programs in the U.S.

Let’s Fly High with Bungee Workouts

Bungee workouts are a great way to get in a total body workout, as well as cardio. Don’t be scared if you’re new to bungee or haven’t worked out in quite a while; bungee is for everyone. With the help of resistance bungee cords, you’re able to fly high and work out. You’ll learn core moves and aerial flight through the help of your instructor or gym leader.

Bungee workouts make working out fun again. Sure, they make you apprehensive at first. But once you get used to it, the daredevil in you comes out. Not sure where to go for a bungee class? Check out Google to find a bungee workout class near you. Don’t forget; these classes are better in groups. Bring your friends or family members and work out together. Whether you’re working on your form or strengthening your core, a bungee workout is for you! Still don’t believe me, check out this video below for more proof.